Hey, college students! It’s easy to maintain proper oral hygiene when your parents are around to remind you to brush, floss, and eat healthily. Once you leave home, keeping your smile healthy is your responsibility.
College is an exciting time, full of newfound independence, exciting experiences, busy schedules, and all-nighters, and it can be easy to put your oral health on the back burner. Establishing good habits now will keep your teeth healthy during college and set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Here are some dental care tips to help college students take the very best care of their teeth when mom and dad aren’t around to help.
Establish and Maintain an Oral Care Routine
Settling into college life can take some time. While orienting yourself to the campus, a new schedule, and the whirlwind of college social life, don’t forget to include good oral habits as part of your daily routine. When you accidentally oversleep or stay up late studying, it can be tempting to skip brushing and flossing your teeth. Unfortunately, your teeth don’t take your schedule needs into account—poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and periodontal disease.
One of the best ways to ensure that you’re taking care of your teeth is to make an oral hygiene routine and stick to it. Having a set, scheduled routine has been linked to improved health, better time management, and reduced stress.
Your typical oral hygiene routine should include:
- Brushing: Brush your teeth for two minutes at least twice a day—once in the morning and again before bed. Use a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
- Flossing: Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth. This step is crucial as it reaches areas that your toothbrush can’t, helping to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. If traditional flossing is difficult, consider using floss picks or a water flosser for convenience.
- Rinsing: Use mouthwash once or twice a day to reduce bacteria and keep your breath fresh. An antiseptic mouthwash can help prevent gingivitis, while fluoride rinses can provide additional protection against cavities.
Make Healthy Nutrition a Priority in College
Once you transition to a new school environment, the convenience of fast food, vending machines, and sugary snacks readily available can make it easy to fall into unhealthy eating patterns.
While occasionally grabbing a soda or sweet treat isn’t a big deal, having a healthy diet is important if you want to avoid dental problems. Sugar interacts with the natural bacteria and saliva in your mouth, forming a substance called plaque. When left on the teeth, plaque dissolves the protective layer of enamel and causes tooth decay.
To maintain good oral health, limit sugary snacks and drinks, including sodas and sports drinks. Instead, to help deter cavities, choose healthy and nutritious snacks such as:
- Fruits and vegetables: Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery can help clean your teeth as you eat by stimulating saliva production, which naturally rinses your mouth
- Yogurt with fruit: Dairy products like yogurt are high in calcium, which strengthens your teeth. Pair it with fruit for added vitamins and fiber.
- Mixed nuts: Nuts are rich in protein and healthy fats, providing a satisfying snack that’s good for your teeth. They also contain minerals that help strengthen tooth enamel.
- Hummus or veggie dip: Pair these with whole grain crackers or fresh vegetables for a balanced, tooth-friendly snack.
- Whole grain bread and crackers: Whole grains provide fiber and nutrients and are less likely to stick to your teeth compared to refined grains
Maintaining this routine might require some discipline, especially during late-night study sessions or early morning classes, but the long-term benefits are worth the effort. Consistency is key to preventing the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to more serious dental problems down the road.
Avoid Harmful Habits: Smoking, Vaping, and More
College can be a time of experimentation, but habits like smoking and vaping can harm your oral health. Both expose your mouth to harmful chemicals that stain teeth, cause bad breath, and increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Additionally, other habits such as nail-biting, chewing on pens, or grinding your teeth (often due to stress) can cause physical damage to your teeth. These behaviors can lead to chipped teeth, enamel wear, and jaw pain. If you find yourself engaging in any of these habits, consider finding healthier ways to manage stress, such as exercising, meditating, or using a mouthguard to protect your teeth.
Avoiding these harmful habits will not only protect your oral health but also contribute to your overall well-being, allowing you to enjoy your college years with confidence and a healthy smile.
Ask Mom and Dad for Help with an Oral Care Package
Even though your parents won’t be there to oversee your dental care, they can still help you stay on track. Many students either forget to stock up on dental care supplies or will find other things to spend their money on.
Before heading to school, ask for an “oral care package” filled with essentials like toothpaste, a toothbrush, dental floss, and mouth rinse. Including some healthy snacks in the package is a great idea, too. Having these items readily available makes it easier to stick to your oral care routine, even during the busiest of times.
You might also consider investing in a travel-size dental kit to keep in your backpack. This way, you can freshen up after meals or before classes, especially if you have a packed schedule that keeps you away from your dorm for extended periods. Having dental supplies on hand can be a great reminder to take care of your teeth, even when you’re on the go.
Handling Dental Emergencies
While prevention is the best way to maintain good oral health, accidents can still happen. It’s important to know what to do in case of a dental emergency. while you’re away at school.
Make sure you know where to go for dental care in your new location. Most college campuses have student health services that can provide you with information on nearby dentists or emergency care facilities. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a small emergency dental kit on hand, including gauze, a small container to store a knocked-out tooth, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Seek help immediately if you experience:
- Chips or cracks in your teeth: These can expose the inner layers of your tooth, leading to sensitivity and an increased risk of infection.
- Intense bleeding or swelling that won’t stop: This could be a sign of a serious injury or infection that requires prompt attention.
- Severe jaw pain: Jaw pain can be a symptom of various issues, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders or an abscessed tooth.
- A loose or knocked-out permanent tooth: Time is critical in saving a knocked-out tooth. If this happens, place the tooth in a container of milk or saline solution and get to a dentist immediately.
Knowing how to respond to dental emergencies can help you protect your oral health and avoid complications that could interfere with your studies.
Don’t Skip Regular Dental Checkups
There’s no question that your day-to-day life will change considerably once you go to college. However, one thing that shouldn’t change is the need to visit a dentist regularly. Keeping up with your routine cleanings and prevention appointments will help you avoid cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems that could affect your overall health.
Consider scheduling dental visits around your school holidays. Many students find it convenient to see their regular dentist when they’re home for winter or summer break.
By taking these steps, you’ll ensure that your smile stays bright and healthy throughout your college years and beyond. Don’t let the excitement and demands of college life get in the way of your oral health—make it a priority, and you’ll reap the benefits for years to come.
Growing Healthy Smiles sees current patients up to age 21, so if you’re still eligible, continue your care with us! Maintaining proper dental hygiene and regular dental visits while in college is essential for a lifetime of good oral health. To schedule an appointment with Growing Healthy Smiles in Fleming Island, FL, call us today at (904) 215-7800!